Is one of your New Year’s resolutions to find a new job? Now is the perfect time to start looking for that new job you wanted!

Why is it important to start your job search now?

Finding a new job in 2024 may be on many people’s New Year’s resolutions list. Stay proactive by applying for positions ahead of the competition. As the job market typically experiences increased activity at the beginning of the year, seize the opportunity to stand out and attract potential employers’ attention by submitting your applications early.

Throughout the festive and New Year period, various temporary or seasonal roles are coming to an end as temporary staff move on to different employment. As those filling the temp roles move on to different employment, opportunities may arise for you to apply, presenting a great chance to explore new job possibilities.

What is a CV

A CV, or Curriculum Vitae, is the first chance that an individual has to outline their qualifications. It includes information about work history, education, and skills learned, along with any achievements or awards made at the time of education. That is how you would be introducing yourself to potential employers and showing them why you are the person to take for the job. If done well, it could secure you a job interview.

How to write a good CV

Employers get lots of CVs to look at and have to decide quickly who they’re going to interview. When you write your CV, remember to:

– Include all relevant information such as your contact details, education and work history, employment gaps, achievements, and interests
– Keep your it looking clean by using a clear font like Arial or Calibri
– Always use the same style throughout
– Use bullet points and headings to make it easier to read
– Proofread and spellcheck, or ask someone to read it to double check your spelling and grammar

Additional CV tips

Your CV should be relevant to the position you are applying to. Reduce any information that does not directly apply to the position you are applying to.

Write about any employment gaps. If you were unemployed for a while, document it and highlight what you learnt during this time.

Use keywords but avoid cliché words or phrases. These words will be used on the majority of CVs employers see and you won’t stand out from the others.

For more advice on how to write a champion CV, click here.

Prepare and customise a cover letter

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a personalised message you include when applying to any job. It acts as a brief note to the employer, introducing yourself and explaining why you are interested in the role. In the letter, you can emphasise specific skills and experiences that show your enthusiasm and relevance for the role. A well thought out cover letter can grab the employer’s attention and increase your chances of being considered for an interview.

How to write a great cover letter:

– Personalise your cover letter. Address the hiring manager by name, and tailor your cover letter for each job application. Make it clear why you are interested in this specific position and company.
– Showcase your achievements. Use specific examples to highlight your accomplishments and skills relevant to the job.
– Express your enthusiasm for the role. Demonstrate genuine excitement for the role and the company. Explain why you are passionate about the opportunity and how your skills align with the organisation’s goals.
– Highlight any transferable skills. Emphasize transferable skills that are applicable to the position, even if you are changing industries. Connect your past experiences to the requirements of the job.
– Keep it clean and concise. Aim for a clear and compelling narrative without any unnecessary details. A well-structured, easy-to-read cover letter is more likely to capture the hiring manager’s attention.

Optimise your LinkedIn profile

– Increase your visibility. Optimising your profile boosts your visibility to recruiters and employers searching for candidates with specific skills and qualifications.
– Create a professional first impression. A well-optimised profile creates a positive first impression, highlighting your professionalism and attention to detail.
– Maximise your networking opportunities. LinkedIn provides a platform for networking, connecting you with professionals, potential employers, and industry peers.
– Make your profile relevant to the role you are applying to. By aligning your profile with relevant keywords and job descriptions, you increase your chances of being noticed and considered for job opportunities that match your skills and experience.

By taking action and completing these tasks, you can make yourself stand out when applying for a new job. For more tips on how to improve your LinkedIn profile, click here.

If you want more advice, book a Career MOT with one of our Consultants who can discuss the following:

– Your career history
– CV improvement advice
– Your key skills and how we can help with training and assessments
– Which roles and sectors may be well suited to you
– Interview tips and techniques
– Salary benchmarking
– Updates on local employment opportunities

Start applying today to have the chance to start your new career in the new year or register with Hales to help you find your next role. Send your CV to jobs@halesgroup.co.uk or click here to find out more about the latest job opportunities near you.